Statement by President Barrow at State Dinner

In Honour of Their
Royal Highnesses, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall held at the
Coco Ocean Spa and Resort 1st November 2018

Your Royal Highnesses, The Prince of Wales
and The Duchess of Cornwall

Honourable Speaker

Honourable Cabinet members

Excellencies

Distinguished guests

It was almost two years when Gambians
decided they wanted change and they voted to restore and defend democracy. In April this year, The Gambia was formerly
welcomed back to the Commonwealth family and gave us cause to celebrate.
Tonight, hosting their Royal Highnesses is yet another exciting event to
celebrate democracy.

The United Kingdom and by extension the
Commonwealth have shown solidarity to my government and Gambians by supporting
The Gambia’s bid to be accepted back to the Commonwealth. I thank the Commonwealth family for
accepting us back. The Gambia enjoys
significant UK support not only in our transition period but also through
cooperation in Medical Research, Defence, Education, Tourism and support to
Civil Society engagement.

The Prince of Wales’ decision to choose The
Gambia as the first country to visit after the Commonwealth agreed to his
succession as head of the organisation is indeed hugely appreciated. To us, this underscores an encouragement to
place emphasis on the values of democracy and the rule of law. My government will continue to uphold these
principles.

Your Royal Highnesses, Distinguished
Guests,

I am happy to use this opportunity to
congratulate Your Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales as you celebrate your
70th birthday this month but also as you continue to celebrate the grace that
comes with being a grandfather.
Congratulations Your Royal Highness.

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
shall we all rise and drink to the good health and personal wellbeing of their
Royal Highnesses.